YabaTech to host NBTE–NCCE Al/ML national conference

Yaba College of Technology (YabaTech), Lagos, has been selected to host the 2026 edition of the NBTE–NCCE–MOC National Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) Conference, Seminar, and Hands-on Training, slated for June 22–26.

The event is part of ongoing efforts by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to strengthen capacity in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and interdisciplinary research across Nigeria and Ethiopia.

The initiative is anchored on a decentralised Linux Apache2-based framework designed to stream real research models developed by lecturers directly into classrooms, with a view to shifting learning from theory to practical, implementation-driven engagement.

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The conference, themed “Large-Dataset Morphological Erosion, Dilation, and 3D Structural Analysis for AI/ML Applications on the Linux Platform,” is expected to attract lecturers, researchers, policymakers, and technical experts from both countries.

Participants will engage in technical sessions, live demonstrations, and hands-on training designed to showcase open-source AI/ML simulator systems for real-time experimentation, research validation, and classroom deployment.

The programme will be led by Dr. Mfon Okpok, a Nigerian-born interdisciplinary engineer and AI/ML research scientist based in the United States, who plays a key role in the NBTE/NCCE national AI/ML initiative.

Okpok holds a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Engineering from Kennesaw State University, with additional postgraduate qualifications spanning applied mathematics, electrical engineering technology, information technology, software engineering, and computer science.

With nearly two decades of experience, he has worked with global organisations such as Cisco Systems and Warner Bros. Discovery, where he handled engineering systems, broadcast infrastructure, and complex platform operations.

A major highlight of the event will be the unveiling of what organisers describe as Nigeria’s first decentralised Linux-based AI/ML simulator platform, developed through collaboration between NBTE and NCCE over the past two years.

The platform is designed to host and stream AI-driven research models developed by lecturers in Nigeria and Ethiopia, enabling real-time classroom demonstrations, experimentation, and the development of a national AI/ML research ecosystem.

It has already been deployed for testing in selected institutions, including YabaTech, the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, the Federal College of Education, Zuba, the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, and Hawassa University Institute of Technology.

YabaTech’s selection as host, stakeholders said, reflects its early adoption and strong performance in the national AI/ML programme launched in 2024.

NBTE Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Bugaje commended the institution’s leadership, particularly the Rector, Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, for sustaining innovation and academic excellence.

Organisers said the conference is expected to deepen Nigeria’s capacity for AI-driven teaching, research, and innovation, as institutions are encouraged to key into a decentralized, research-oriented education system powered by open-source technologies.